#ProtectYourPackage

Are you heading to uni this year? Well after spending years serving students we've realised that sex is one of the biggest anxiety inducers for new university goers. Because of this we've bought tens of thousands of condoms to give out to freshers going to university. We'll be at Leeds, Oxford, York, and Nottingham, so look out for us and come get a free Kit Keeper condom!

University is a time when students are given their first taste of independence, and as a result, sex is one of the aspects that young people start to explore...especially when you don't have the scrutiny of your parents!

Let’s first break down the common myths around sex:

“STI tests are only for those that have sex on a regular basis!”

Anyone can catch a sexually transmitted infection! Whether it's one time or a hundred times (players), if you have unprotected sex it's worth getting a free STI check. Wearing a condom is an extremely effective way of protecting you from pregnancies and sexually transmitted infection but only when you use them properly.

"If he pulls out before ejaculation, you can’t get pregnant.”

Before the ejaculation phase, men can in fact discharge bodily fluids which increases the risk of pregnancy and/or sexually transmitted infections. Delightful.

“You can’t get an STI through oral sex”

Sexually transmitted infections can still be transmitted by oral sex due to the exchanging of bodily fluids.

Let's not beat around the bush: sex can be an awkward and sensitive topic, but it is critical to stay safe while exploring your sexuality in order to avoid STIs and for your own peace of mind. Here are some tips of navigating your sexual health at university.

Get tested regularly

It’s good to get regular checkups for STDs. You can find your nearest NHS sexual health clinic here: https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/sexual-health/find-a-sexual-health-clinic

Ask for help

There’s nothing to be ashamed of if you have any questions or need advice about sexual health. The NHS run a free national sexual health helpline, which you can reach on 0300 123 7123. All calls are completely confidential.

Be on the same page

Make sure you and your partner are on the same page about protection. In the heat of the moment you might forget or feel embarrassed to discuss it, but it’s always worth bringing up the topic of protection.

Don’t ignore symptoms

You can find a full list of STD symptoms here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sexually-transmitted-infections-stis/ Don’t be embarrased to talk to a professional about your symptoms. They may painful or uncomfortable but can usually be treated easily.

Consent is key

Consent is an essential part of sexual health and communication of consent is key. Just because you give permission for one thing to happen, like a kiss, doesn’t mean you’ve automatically consented to other kinds of sexual behaviour. The same goes for your partner – always ask, never presume. Drugs and alcohol can affect someone’s ability to consent, if your partner if under the influence of any substances, make sure to stop engaging in any kind of sexual activity.